The best road cycling routes around Rocks

Saint Patrick and Saint Colman's Cathedral is the architectural jewel of Newry and one of Ireland's most impressive Neo-Gothic structures. Construction began in 1825, and upon its completion in 1829, the cathedral made history as the first Catholic cathedral to open in Ireland following the repeal of the penal laws (Catholic Emancipation). Built from local granite from the nearby Mourne Mountains, this edifice exudes a robust yet elegant power. The cathedral is world-renowned for its fabulous interior: the walls and ceiling are adorned with colourful mosaics, meticulously applied by hand by Italian master craftsmen in the early 20th century. For the cyclist, this is not only a visual highlight along the route but also a place of serene tranquility. Its detailed stained-glass windows and monumental tower make it one of the city's most photographed locations and a worthy endpoint (or starting point) for your tour along the Newry Canal Towpath.

This largely flat and completely traffic-free path winds through the heart of counties Armagh and Down, along the tranquil waterway that once formed the lifeline for transporting coal to the Irish Sea. As you pedal over the well-maintained asphalt or fine gravel, you'll be surrounded by lush green embankments, historic stone bridges, and the monumental remains of eighteen locks that bridge the elevation difference in the landscape. A mix of smooth asphalt and easily rideable fine gravel, suitable for almost all types of bicycles.

quick service with plenty of space

Quiet canal section south of Poyntzpass, where the towpath runs tightly along the narrow water. The bank is lightly overgrown with low trees and hedges, giving the stretch an intimate, green impression. The water is mostly still, forming a straight line through the open agricultural landscape. An even, traffic-free segment ideal for quiet miles on the towpath.

The Newry Canal Towpath is a 32-kilometer-long, almost entirely traffic-free green corridor connecting the towns of Portadown and Newry. It follows the towpath of the oldest canal in the British Isles, opened in 1742 to transport coal from County Tyrone to the sea. The Newry Canal Towpath offers an unparalleled cycling experience through the tranquil heart of County Armagh and County Down. This historic route, part of the National Cycle Network Route 9, takes you along a flat and largely asphalted path past fourteen monumental locks and characteristic lock-keeper's cottages. As you follow the waterway, you'll traverse a varied landscape of dense forests and open meadows, passing through welcoming villages like Scarva and Poyntzpass along the way. The path is a haven for wildlife; keep an eye out for kingfishers, swans, and otters that inhabit the reed beds. Whether you cycle the full 32 kilometers or explore just a section, the combination of industrial history and natural beauty makes this one of the absolute gems of Irish cycling routes.

Nice little cafe in the village of Scarva right alongside the Newry canal towpath, great for brekkie, lunch or just topping up the hydration.

Hollie Berrie is a good place for refreshments on the route at Scarva

gravel paths and a tarmac road up the middle, also has public toilets